Landlords have numerous responsibilities and roles that go beyond rent collection. You’ll discover they’re frequently repairmen, conflict solvers and negotiators. Furthermore, they must know how to handle irate neighbors and tenants.
Although every state’s laws will differ slightly, here’s a list of the general services and duties that landlords should provide.
Provide a Safe Environment
Tenants expect to live in a safe home therefore; landlords are responsible for offering their tenants with a secure place. Tenants must feel safe in their rental, which means landlords should secure all windows and doors properly and have suitable working locks.
At the very least, every front door must have a deadbolt lock. A landlord should also ensure nobody else can access the tenant’s rental.
As a landlord, you must change the locks once a previous tenant moves out. If you plan to give realtors the keys to show vacancies to prospects, ensure you use a generic lock and substitute it before a tenant moves in.
You shouldn’t permit unsupervised repairmen in a tenant’s rental because robbery claims could arise. It’s also imperative that you follow all safety codes, for instance the installation of working carbon monoxide detectors.
Tenants should also feel safe outside the building, so outdoor areas should be well lit and hazard-free. If you own a multi-unit property, tenants must feel safe with other tenants in the building. You must screen all tenants properly and be wary of permitting dangerous breeds.
Unit Maintenance
A landlord is responsible for maintaining the property, including keeping it clean, habitable, and safe. The property owner should adhere to building codes, conduct essential repairs, and keep vital services such as plumbing in good working order.
Maintain Cleanliness
A tenant expects to reside in a clean home, and while you’re not responsible for doing his or her chores, you have certain duties to maintain the property. You must take out the trash either through an agreement with a superintendant or by yourself.
You should also ensure there’s proper maintenance of common areas; they should be mopped, garbage-free, and vacuumed on a schedule. You should also ensure the common areas have functioning light bulbs and you should arrange for grass cutting.
In the event that a tenant has an issue with roaches, rodents, or bedbugs, you’ll have to handle the problem yourself or hire an expert.
Deliver Unit Possession
This implies that the unit should be vacant for the tenant on the specified move-in date on the lease agreement.
If the unit isn’t available on the specified date, the tenant has the right to seek legal action against the proprietor for failing to honor the agreement. Additionally, if a squatter is in the unit, the property owner may seek legal action against the individual.
Respond to Prompt Repair Requests
A tenant pays to live in your property, so you’re responsible for responding to repair requests within a reasonable time. Nevertheless, the severity of the repair will determine how fast you respond.
Manage Security Deposit
Landlords have the right to charge tenants a security deposit even though it doesn’t actually belong to the landlord. Rather, it serves as security for the property owner in the event that the tenant doesn’t pay rent or causes property damage.
Bear in mind that landlords are obligated to follow the local and statewide laws concerning the security deposit otherwise they could face legal consequences.
Final Thoughts
Landlords typically expect their rental properties to be lucrative investments. However, their roles continue once the tenant signs the lease. If you’re wondering what to expect from your landlord in terms of responsibilities, this guide will prove invaluable.
For more information on a landlord’s obligations, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave a comment.